Post-Stripping Sclerodermiform Dermatitis

Sclerodermiform Dermatitis After Coronary Artery Bypass Graft With an Internal Thoracic Artery Conduit

“…In 1999, French et al reported three cases of sclerodermiform dermatitis following saphenous vein stripping for varicose veins [ 5 ]. These cases presented as hypopigmented and indurated linear plaques following the distribution of the stripped vein, presenting between two to six years after their procedures.…”

“…It is hypothesized that damage to the nerves, vasculature, and lymphatics leads to changes in the skin and subcutaneous tissue. One proposed mechanism for the sclerodermatous changes includes local hypoxia as the stimulus for transforming growth factor-beta upregulation and collagen synthesis [ 5 , 6 ]. This suggests that decreased oxygenation from disruption of the vasculature may favor molecular processes that lead to localized sclerosis.…”

“…Previously cited dermatoses following saphenous vein harvesting include ecchymoses, telangiectasias, eczematous dermatitis, xerosis, hypertrophic scarring, cellulitis, and cutaneous ulceration [3,4]. Of note, sclerodermiform dermatitis has been reported in a limited number of patients who underwent saphenous vein stripping for varicose veins [5]. Cutaneous manifestations after harvesting have not been reported in the literature utilizing the internal thoracic artery as a conduit.…”